Arts and Culture
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The current music industry is not short of female pop singers — Kelly Clarkson, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, and Katie Perry are all prominent female superstars. While Shakira might be considered among such ladies, she stands out with her bold sexuality and mingling of cultural influences — not to mention those hips.
In the Colombian-born songstress’ third English-speaking album, She Wolf, such attributes remain present. Shakira co-produced the album, with Pharrell Williams and his production outfit, The Neptunes, creating an overall transformation from her former Latin-tinged pop a la “Hips Don’t Lie,” to the infectiously danceable nature of She Wolf. As most readers probably know, I tend to gravitate toward indie-rock and gloomy singer-songwriters, but I like to think I maintain a watchful and appreciative eye on good pop — and She Wolf is among the ranks.
Listeners will instantly notice She Wolf’s electro-pop influence, from “Why Wait,” a destined club anthem, to “Long Time,” a percussive tune with a synthesized clarinet solo. The album’s first solo, “She Wolf,” is crazily catchy, and equally fun, with the addition of the singer’s quirky “ah-woo!” howl (not to mention the surprising ‘disco guitar’ alongside her vocals). Shakira noted that (producer) Hill introduced her to such electro acts as the Crystal Castles, contributing to the record’s overall electronic vibe. But Wolf maintains the influences that first made Shakira famous — she continues to incorporate elements from varied cultures’ music, including her native Colombia, but also heard are many Middle-Eastern influences, atop a steady synth sound .
Fans looking to find another subtle tune like Laundry Service’s “Underneath Your Clothes” might be disappointed, as Wolf is a tried-and-true dancefloor accompaniment. Shakira was evidently ‘on the prowl’ for change; the shift in her unpredictable sound proves she values progress and innovation. Overall, Wolf is a fun, danceable record of experimentation, for those listeners also looking to release their inner She Wolves.
